FAQ
What is a DBS check?
A DBS check (Disclosure and Barring Service) has replaces the CRB check (Criminal Records Bureau). The DBS work with the police to provide information which is held on the police database locally or nationally about an individual’s criminal record. This information is used to help organisations make safer recruitment decisions when recruiting staff. There are 3 levels of checks: standard, enhanced without barred list, and enhanced with barred list. A check can only be requested by an employer if the position meets the eligibility criteria set out by the DBS. A standard check searches the applicant's record for any spent and unspent convictions, cautions, reprimands and final warnings. An enhanced check will include that of a standard check plus any additional information held by local police that’s reasonably considered relevant to the role being applied for. An enhanced with barred list check is similar to the enhanced check, but includes a check of the DBS barred list, either children, vulnerable adults or both.
What is a basic check?
A Basic Check searches for any unspent criminal convictions and is available for individuals as well as organisations to obtain on their staff. A Basic Check is not job specific and can be requested by anybody. A Basic Check is obtained via Disclosure Scotland.
I already have a DBS check. Do I need to complete a new one?
If you answer YES, to any of the following questions you will need to complete a new DBS check:
- Is your current check for a different workforce to the position you are applying for? e.g. you have previously worked with children and have a child workforce check but your new role is working with vulnerable adults?
- If the position you are applying for is working with adults. Is your current check over 3 years old?
- If the position you are applying for is working with children. Is your current check over 2 years old?
- Have you lost your certificate?
- Was your DBS issued by an external organisation?
If you have joined the Update Service you will need to give North Lincolnshire Council permission to perform a status check.
How long does a DBS check take?
Once we have received your ID your application will be processed providing there are no errors on the application or problems with the ID supplied then an application will be sent to the DBS through the Online Disclosure application system.
80% of Online Disclosures’ applications are complete within 5 days and 97% complete within 10 days. Once the check is complete a certificate will be posted to you, which may take a few days.
What ID do I need to produce?
This information was included in your initial email but can also be found (Link to privacy policy page)
I don’t have enough ID, how will this affect my application?
Get in touch with us and we will help you find a solution.
What happens with the photocopies of my ID?
Photocopies will be used by North Lincolnshire Council staff to verify your application. Photocopies will be stored securely in our office until your DBS check is complete, at which time they will be confidentially destroyed.
I am or have been living abroad. Does this affect my application?
If you have never lived in the United Kingdom, or have spent a considerable amount of time living abroad in the last 5 years, you will need to provide a 'Certificate of Good Conduct' issued from that country or countries which you have lived in during that time. This check is in addition to the DBS application.
If are a Non-UK or Non-EEA National, you will also need to provide your Biometric residence/work permit or your Visa. Please contact 01724 298500 for further guidance.
How long is my disclosure check valid for?
Our organisation ask staff to obtain a new Disclosure every two years when working with children and every three years when working with vulnerable adults. If you choose to join the Update Service you will need to give us permission to carry out a status check and will not need to complete a new check providing the information is valid and are working with the same workforce that the original check was for (children or vulnerable adults).